← Department← Department

Department - the transformation of a grade II listed former department store into a vibrant cultural hub - has officially opened its doors. What was once a space for production and exchange of ironmongery and subsequently women's fashion has now become a place for making, performing, learning, and celebrating. But more than that, The Department is a commitment to creativity, community, and reclaiming spaces in ways that serve people, planet and place

Shademakers, known for their incredible carnival work (large-scale kinetic sculptures, dancing installations, and a serious talent for bringing streets to life), have spent over three decades as a nomadic organisation. Now, they finally have a long-term base and it’s one with an open door, inviting Ryde’s creative community to step inside and be part of something special. With Ryde Carnival dating back to 1887, when the first procession was held to celebrate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, the town is widely considered to be the home of the UK’s oldest carnival tradition and so an ideal home for the Shademakers.

For Turner Works, this project has been about more than just architecture. It’s about reimagining what our high streets can be and proving that old buildings can have bold new futures. The overarching goal of the project was to create a lasting, inclusive space for the local creative community. Shademakers initially occupied the building on a meanwhile basis prior to renovation, testing the building through events with partners including Stitch Department and Horse Box Theatre. Such temporary use enabled testing of design ideas and directly influenced the final design proposals. The building was designed to leave a legacy, providing future generations with a place to create, learn, and engage with art

Embracing History and Building Layers: The building's rich history—spanning from an ironmonger's to dressmaker’s store—is a cornerstone of the project. The design choices honour the building's past while accommodating its new purpose. A multi-layered history is visible, original elements from wonky wooden floors to layers of structure are tied together with a kit of new oak, plywood and red metal parts. The building’s various phases and functions are reflected in the architecture, from the fabric of the structure to the decorative metalwork.

Reimagining the Building’s Flow and Circulation: A major design challenge was to improve circulation and ensure accessibility. The building was previously three interconnected buildings, each with its own layout. A deft cut in the smallest and oldest central building has allowed a new point of vertical circulation, whilst freeing up the spaces in the rest of the building for a range of functions. A new through route has been created from High Street to the rear of the building, making the Department a part of everyday life and encouraging the public to pass through and engage with its creative activities. The design consciously separates public, semi-public, and private areas. The ground floor has become a fully accessible public space with a gallery, shop, theatre, dance studios and audio booth. The first floor community cafe has been reimagined with a new layout and dining terrace, and are now accompanied by a variety of art classes and studios. The second floor is home to Shademaker’s own creative spaces.

Sustainability and Resourcefulness: The design approach is resourceful and sustainable, working with existing grade II listed fabric. Rather than tearing down and starting anew, we focused on retaining and enhancing existing structures whilst interweaving new electrical and heating systems. Challenges such as roof repairs and improving thermal performance, were carried out with a careful approach, balancing heritage and modern construction methods to suit the tight budget. The project preserves the building’s history and reactivates it for future generations. Upcycled furniture is visible throughout the space, with upholstery and refurbished / bespoke joinery made by the clients own network of makers and DIY enthusiasts.

Collaboration with Artists: The involvement of artists in the project was significant with the client team at Shademakers an active and vital collaborator to the whole design process. Influences from the Shademakers experience in Germany and the UK, combined with local artists Liz Cooke and Alice Malia with a focus on giving the artists freedom to express themselves while aligning with the building’s character. The resulting design overall and artistic features, such as the art curtains and decorative metal gates, embody stories that bring the identity of the building and its people together. It is distinctly proud of being hyper-local, whilst also wanting to open the door to national and global cultural conversations.

The Isle of Wight has a long history of creativity and celebration (this is, after all, the birthplace of the UK’s first carnival) and The Department continues that legacy. It’s a place that encourages big ideas, playful experimentation, and a sense of belonging.

The Department is a blank canvas, ready to be shaped by the community. For us, this project embodies everything we love about what we do: repurposing, reinventing, and designing with people at the heart of it all. The Department is proof that buildings don’t have to sit empty, waiting for a developer to swoop in. With the right energy, collaboration, and vision, they can become something really special.

“Department is a place for everyone. A place to imagine, create, and be inspired. We’ll host workshops and skills training for people of all ages - whether it’s sewing with textiles or sustainable materials, theatre skills and event production.” Sharon George, Creative Director of Shademakers / Department

"We want people to stumble across art, and break down all the barriers to see art. Every time you go into the space, it is unexpected. It’s the perfect playground for innovation”. Joe Plumb, Horse Box Theatre / Department

“Department is poised to become an exemplary high-street regeneration project, one that’s sure to bring positive benefits to Ryde for years to come. A landmark moment for culture on the Isle of Wight. Here’s to cultural firepower on the Isle of Wight, here’s to artists at the heart of placemaking, and here’s to an exceptional future”. Phil Gibby, Arts Council